Trekology Trek-Z 2.0 Pole
The best value trekking poles of 2021.
We’ve broken our fair share of budget poles, some seemingly right out of the box. But the foldable, three-section aluminum Trek-Z 2.0 has been by our side for five months without a hitch. With an extended foam grip topped by a comfy handle and 8 inches of adjustability, the pole offered comfort and versatility to choke up when we made the 1,000-foot ascent up the Willow Creek Trail in Montana. The Trek-Z 2.0 also breaks down to 15 inches long, making it convenient to stash inside or on a daypack. There are some tradeoffs for the low price, however: The pole needs an extra step to lock the internal cord after folding, the single metal adjustment flick-lock mechanism requires tightening after traversing steep terrain, and the straps are thin and scratchy.
39-49 inches (short), 45-53 inches (long)